AthlonSports.com - Anquan Boldinhttp://athlonsports.com/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin
en39 Things That Never Happened in the NFL Until 2013http://athlonsports.com/nfl/39-things-never-happened-nfl-until-2013
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">39 Things That Never Happened in the NFL Until 2013</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/42724-1/PeytonManning_2013_300.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 327px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />Even though the Denver Broncos lost Super Bowl XLVIII to the Seattle Seahawks, they still set the single-season record for points scored (606). This, of course, was fueled in large part by <strong>Peyton Manning</strong>&rsquo;s record 5,477 yards passing and 55 touchdowns.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Manning and the Broncos weren&rsquo;t the only player or team that made history last season. And even in the AFC champions&rsquo; case, when it comes to record-setting moments during the 2013 season, some &ldquo;firsts&rdquo; are better left forgotten. As in what happened just 12 seconds in to Super Bowl XLVIII.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">In 2013, for the first time in NFL history a team&hellip;</h4><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Featured a 450-yard passing game (Aaron Rodgers) and 125-yard rushing performance (James Starks) in the same game (Packers).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Allowed 25 points and committed at least three turnovers in each of its first six games (Giants).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Was pick-6&rsquo;d in five consecutive contests (Texans).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Was favored by as many as 27 points in the Vegas line (Denver &mdash; which failed to cover &mdash; against Jacksonville).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scored 17 touchdowns in its first eight games of a season, but none of them was rushing (Rams).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scored on three rushes from 30 or more yards out in the same quarter (Eagles).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That won at least 12 games the previous season endured a 12-game losing streak in the next (Texans).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gained 400 or more yards in 14 games (Broncos).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Rallied from as many as 28 points down to win a non-overtime playoff off game (Colts over Chiefs)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Won a postseason affair despite allowing 40 points and turning the ball over four times (Colts).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scored on six consecutive drives of a conference championship game (Broncos).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scored as quickly as 12 seconds into a Super Bowl (Seahawks).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Whose offense ranked more than 20 places higher in rushing than passing won a Super Bowl (Seahawks).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">A quarterback&hellip;</h4><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Threw 20 TD passes in a season before being intercepted (Peyton Manning).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/20548-1/MattSchaub_001.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 327px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />Had an INT returned for a TD in four straight games (<strong>Matt Schaub</strong>).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Completed at least 25 passes in more than 10 consecutive games (Drew Brees).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Fired 16 TD passes in the first month of a season (Manning).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scored on a run of longer than 80 yards (Terrelle Pryor).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Had a streak of more than 600 aerial attempts without completing one for a TD of longer than 20 yards (Christian Ponder).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Threw for multiple TDs in 21 consecutive home games (Brees).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Fired 359 TD passes for the same coach (Tom Brady for Bill Belichick).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Had 20 games with both a passing and rushing TD in the first three seasons of his career (Cam Newton).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Had a string of 16 TD passes in a single season that all came only in road games (Nick Foles).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ran his career total of 300-yard/four-TD games to 23 (Brees).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Reached 50,000 aerial yards in fewer than 190 games (Brees).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Threw four or more TD passes in nine different games of a single season (Manning).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Flung 30 or more scoring passes in six straight campaigns (Brees).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Accounted for 8,000 total yards in his first two seasons (Andrew Luck).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Amassed more than 1,700 passing yards in a calendar month (Manning in December).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Started a postseason game for the 26th time (Brady).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">A receiver&hellip;</h4><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Caught 100 yards worth of his passes in his first game with a third different team (Anquan Boldin).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Caught four TD passes in one game on plays that started in the red zone (Marvin Jones).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With at least 50 career TD receptions nabbed as many as 84 balls in a row without scoring (Andre Johnson).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/41744-1/JoshGordon_2012_300.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 327px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />Caught 774 yards worth of passes in a four-game span (<strong>Josh Gordon</strong>).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Caught 861 yards worth of passes in a five-game span (Calvin Johnson).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Recorded back-to-back 200-yard performances (Gordon).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4 class="athlon-medium-title" style="font-family:helveticaneue-medium,helvetica;font-size:26px;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:0em;line-height:1em;margin:0;">A rusher&hellip;</h4><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Averaged 5.5 yards on his first 1,000 NFL carries (Jamaal Charles).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ran for at least 125 yards and four TDs in a playoff contest (LaGarrette Blount).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Needed fewer than three carries to lead both teams in rushing in a Super Bowl (Percy Harvin).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em>&mdash; Compiled by Bruce Herman for Athlon Sports. This article is featured in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://shop.athlonsports.com/index.php?cPath=33_460" target="_blank">Athlon Sports&#39; 2014 NFL Preview magazine</a>, which is available on newsstands or can be purchased online.</em></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/denver-broncos">Denver Broncos</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/green-bay-packers">Green Bay Packers</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/houston-texans">Houston Texans</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/oakland-raiders">Oakland Raiders</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/st-louis-rams">St. Louis Rams</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/philadelphia-eagles">Philadelphia Eagles</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/peyton-manning">Peyton Manning</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/drew-brees">Drew Brees</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/matt-schaub">Matt Schaub</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/cam-newton">Cam Newton</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/jamaal-charles">Jamaal Charles</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/calvin-johnson">Calvin Johnson</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/josh-gordon">Josh Gordon</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/nick-foles">Nick Foles</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/percy-harvin">Percy Harvin</a></div></div></div><div class="field-collection-container clearfix"><div class="field field-name-field-must-read-links field-type-field-collection field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Must Read Links:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"><div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-must-read-links clearfix" class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-must-read-links">
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<div class="field field-name-field-exclude-unless-partner field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Exclude Unless Partner:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"></div></div></div> </div>
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</div></div></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-exclude-from-feeds field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Exclude From Games:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Include In Games</div></div></div>Wed, 02 Jul 2014 17:00:00 +0000Athlon Sports67680 at http://athlonsports.comAFC Championship Preview and Prediction: Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriotshttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-championship-preview-and-prediction-baltimore-ravens-vs-new-england-patriots
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
AFC Championship Preview and Prediction: Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
For the second year in a row the <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> and <strong>New England Patriots</strong> will face off with a spot in the Super Bowl on the line when the two teams kick things off in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game at 6:30 p.m. ET on CBS. The Ravens lost 23-20 to the Patriots in Gillette Stadium in last year’s AFC title game, as wide receiver Lee Evans couldn’t hold onto a potential game-winning touchdown in the closing seconds of the fourth quarter and kicker Billy Cundiff missed a 32-yard field goal that would have sent the game into overtime. Both Evans and Cundiff are no longer with the Ravens, who beat the Patriots 31-30 in Baltimore back in Week 3 and have already shown they can win on the road in the playoffs in a hostile environment, as evidenced by last week’s come-from-behind 38-35 double overtime win in Denver.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21141-1/Flacco+J.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Baltimore Ravens have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Somewhat maligned during the regular season to the point that the team made a coordinator change in December (from Cam Cameron to Jim Caldwell), Baltimore’s offense showed up in a big way in last week’s win. The Ravens’ 479 yards of offense sent a new franchise playoff record and were highlighted by quarterback <strong>Joe Flacco</strong>’s impressive passing performance. Sharing the field with league MVP candidate Peyton Manning, Flacco outshined his Denver counterpart, completing 18-of-34 passes for 331 yards and three touchdowns, the biggest being a 70-yard bomb to wide receiver Jacoby Jones that tied the game with just 31 seconds left in the fourth quarter. Just as he did during the regular season, Flacco did most of his damage throwing the ball deep. Besides the 70-yarder to Jones, Flacco’s other two touchdown passes against the Broncos covered more than 20 yards, a 59-yard strike to Torrey Smith in the first quarter that put the Ravens in the scoring column and a 32-yard hook up with Smith that tied the game right before the end of the first half. During the regular season, Flacco completed 37 percent of his throws deeper than 20 yards with seven touchdowns and he had the most attempts of any quarterback without an interception. The Patriots are already aware of Flacco’s ability to beat teams deep, as he put up a season-high 382 yards passing against them in the Ravens’ 31-30 home win back on Sept. 23. The Ravens finished that game with 503 yards of offense, which has only be topped this season by the 553 they had in their Week 16 victory over the New York Giants. The Patriots’ defense has been highly susceptible against the pass, so it will need to tighten up its coverage against Jones, Smith, as well as fellow wideout Anquan Boldin and tight end Dennis Pitta unless New England wants to see a repeat of what happened in Week 3. The Ravens, however, are by far anything but a pass-only team as they also picked up 155 yards rushing against the Broncos. Running back Ray Rice led the way with 131 yards on 30 carries (4.4 ypc) and he also had 101 on the ground the first time versus the Patriots. Backup Bernard Pierce has been key to the Ravens’ offensive success recently, but he sustained a knee injury against the Broncos. Even though Pierce said he will be out there on Sunday, expect him and his touches to be limited, putting more of the burden on Rice to produce on the ground. Going against an offense like New England’s, ball security will be critical as the Ravens need to make the most of their opportunities with the ball, while also not giving the Patriots many extra possessions. After losing two fumbles in the Wild Card win against Indianapolis two weeks ago, Rice held onto the ball against Denver with the Ravens’ only turnover versus the Broncos being a Flacco interception. Likewise, a Flacco pick was the lone giveaway in Baltimore’s Week 3 win over New England. The Ravens also gave up just one sack against the Broncos’ pass rush, which finished tied for the league lead in sacks, and didn’t allow a single one the first time they faced the Patriots.</p>
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After shutting Miami out in Week 17, New England’s defense returned to its regular-season form in its Divisional Playoff game against Houston. The Patriots gave up 425 yards and 28 points to the Texans, although to be fair 15 of the points came in the fourth quarter when the Patriots were nursing a 35-point lead. Still, given its statistical production during the regular season, the defense needs the offense to do its part to put the team in its best position to win. Look no further than the Week 3 meeting with Baltimore. The Ravens piled up 503 yards of offense against the Patriots, while holding New England’s offense to 396, one of the reasons why Baltimore came out on top 31-30. The Patriots’ strength on defense this season has been stopping the run, as they held the Texans’ Arian Foster to a modest 90 yards on 22 carries (4.1 ypc) last week and finished the regular season ranked ninth overall (101.9 ypg) in rush defense. Baltimore running back Ray Rice had 101 yards rushing by himself the first time against New England, and if the Patriots struggle to contain him and fellow back Bernard Pierce, it will more than likely just open up the Ravens’ passing game even more. The Patriots ranked near the bottom of the league against the pass (271.4 ypg) during the regular season, gave up 343 yards passing to Houston’s Matt Schaub last Sunday, while Baltimore’s Joe Flacco lit them up for a season-high 382 back in September. One rather significant change, the addition of former Tampa Bay cornerback Aqib Talib, has occurred in New England’s secondary since that first matchup with the Ravens, but this hasn’t stopped teams from victimizing the Patriots’ pass defense either. For all the yards this defense has allowed, it has been able to limit the impact on the scoreboard, thanks in large part to turnovers and the fact that the offense has been able to stake them to large leads that dictate their opponents’ offensive game plan. Without the turnovers, however, this defense walks a thin line between bending and getting broken.</p>
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<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/25121-1/TomBrady_003.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the New England Patriots have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Pretty much like clockwork, New England’s offense had little trouble with Houston’s defense in last week’s win. The Patriots put up 457 yards and 41 points against the Texans, exceeding their regular-season averages of 428 yards and 35 points per game. The offense starts and ends with quarterback <strong>Tom Brady</strong>, who passed Joe Montana for most career playoff wins (17) while posting his fifth 300-yard passing game in the postseason. Brady completed 25-of-40 passes for 344 yards and three touchdowns against the Texans, while he put up 335 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers against the Ravens in Week 3. However, Brady and the Patriots lost that game, and in seven career games against Baltimore, including the playoffs, he has thrown more interceptions (eight) than touchdowns (seven), while completing less than 59 percent of his passes and averaging less than 244 yards passing per contest. Brady has particularly struggled in his two playoff matchups with the Ravens, including last season’s conference championship game when he tossed two interceptions and no touchdown passes. It’s no secret that the Patriots will need Brady to produce if they want to beat the Ravens, and he will have to do so without the services of Rob Gronkowski. The dynamic tight end, who missed some time during the regular season after breaking his forearm, re-injured the same arm against the Texans and will miss the remainder of the Patriots’ playoff run. New England doesn’t lack for weapons, not with wide receivers Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd and tight end Aaron Hernandez among others, at Brady’s disposal, but that doesn’t mean the offense won’t miss Gronkowski’s presence either. That’s why running back Shane Vereen’s breakout game against Houston, in which he caught two touchdown passes and added a rushing score, couldn’t have come at a better time. The Patriots may need to rely on the running game a little more against the Ravens, which is where Vereen and leading rusher Stevan Ridley come into play. Ridley finished seventh in the NFL in the regular season with 1,263 yards rushing and contributed 82 yards on 15 carries (5.5 ypc) and a touchdown against the Texans last week. The first time against Baltimore, however, Ridley managed only 37 yards on the ground on 13 carries (2.8 ypc), so he will need to be more effective Sunday night. Sticking to their regular-season script, the Patriots didn’t have any turnovers versus the Texans, and are hoping for a second-straight mistake-free game against the Ravens. Pass protection is always a key for Brady’s effectiveness, and his offensive line surrendered just two sacks to the Ravens back in September.</p>
<p>
Nowhere near as stout as in recent years, the Baltimore defense got the job done last Saturday against Denver in its Divisional Playoff showdown. While the Broncos finished with 398 yards of total offense, the Ravens forced quarterback Peyton Manning into three turnovers, returning one of his two interceptions for a touchdown, while holding the Broncos to just three yards per rushing attempt and only two offensive plays that covered more than 20 yards. In fact, if not for Broncos’ kick returner Trindon Holliday’s record-setting afternoon that featured a kickoff and punt return for touchdowns, this game may not have even gone into double overtime. But it did, and in the end it was the Ravens’ defense that made the game-changing plays, the biggest one being Corey Graham’s second interception late in the first overtime period, which set up Justin Tucker’s game-winning 47-yard field goal. Graham’s other pick also produced a score, as he returned his first-quarter interception 39 yards for a touchdown that gave Baltimore its first lead. Graham wasn’t even a starter at cornerback when the Ravens played the Patriots in Week 3, but that was before Lardarius Webb went down with a season-ending injury. Now firmly entrenched in the secondary, Graham will be called on again to put forth another big-game effort against the Patriots’ pass-catchers. Another change for the Ravens’ defense this time around will be the presence of pass-rusher and playmaker Terrell Suggs, who missed the first meeting in September while he was recovering from a partially torn Achilles tendon. And of course, the Ravens still have Ray Lewis patrolling the middle, as the Canton-bound linebacker is leaving it all on the field in his final season. Lewis followed up his 13-tackle effort in the Wild Card round with a season-high 17 stops against the Broncos. While Lewis may have lost a step and is somewhat limited by a triceps injury, his mere presence seems to elevate the defense’s play. Now it’s up to the Ravens’ defense to channel the emotion and energy the unit gets from its leader to its performance on the field. Anything but the defense’s strongest all-around effort probably won’t get the job done against the Patriots’ well-oiled, high-powered offensive machine.</p>
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<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Key Factor:</strong></span><br />
Let’s see, a conference championship rematch featuring one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history versus the game’s all-time winningest playoff quarterback? What’s not to like? In fact, whether it’s Baltimore or New England playing in New Orleans come Feb. 3, the AFC’s representative in Super Bowl XLVII will come pre-packaged with a made-for-TV subplot. For the Ravens it is Ray Lewis’ chance to ride off into the sunset on top, while the Patriots’ Tom Brady hopes to cement his place in Super Bowl history by capturing a fourth championship ring.</p>
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Before the endless media coverage of either storyline (not to mention so much more) can commence, however, the game to decide the AFC’s champion must be played. And this title game offers enough historical significance of its own, as it is the first conference championship rematch since Dallas and San Francisco battled for NFC supremacy three straight seasons in the early ‘90s (1992-94), and the first in the AFC since Cleveland and Denver faced off in 1986 and ’87.</p>
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It is very easy to pick the Patriots, since Brady is 17-6 in the postseason in his career and has the highest winning percentage in all home games of any quarterback whose career began in the Super Bowl era (min. 20 career starts). That said, Ravens’ quarterback Joe Flacco is no slouch himself when it comes to the playoffs, as his 7-4 postseason record puts him behind only Brady (17), Ben Roethilsberger (14), Peyton Manning (9), and Eli Manning (8) for playoff victories among active quarterbacks. And everyone except Eil Manning (11 career playoff games) has played in more playoff games than Flacco to this point. On top of that, five of Flacco’s seven postseason wins have come on the road, including one on Brady’s turf, a 33-14 victory over the Patriots in the Wild Card round on Jan. 10, 2010.</p>
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Playoff-tested quarterbacks and Hall of Fame-bound linebacker aside, this game will more than likely be decided based on which defense can rise to the occasion and make that key stop or force a pivotal turnover. The Ravens have had a fair amount of success holding Brady in check recently, while the Patriots’ defense has been bailed out more than once by a turnover or its own offense. In fact, last season it could be said that the Patriots got an assist from two Ravens — wide receiver Lee Evans, who dropped a potential game-tying touchdown pass and kicker Billy Cundiff, who then shanked the game-tying field goal attempt at the end of the game — in their 23-20 victory. Evans and <img alt="" src="http://i.athcdn.com.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/images/teams/nfl/logos/logos/Baltimore-Ravens.png" style="width: 180px; height: 87px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />Cundiff are both no longer on the Ravens’ roster, and with a nod to symmetry, I think their replacements — wide receiver Jacoby Jones and kicker Justin Tucker — will prove to be the difference in this one. After all, what’s wrong with adding another media-ready storyline to this game?<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong> <span style="font-size:18px;">Ravens 30, Patriots 28</span></p>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><strong>Related:</strong></span></p>
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<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-championship-preview-and-prediction-san-francisco-49ers-vs-atlanta-falcons" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:14px;">NFC Championship Preview and Prediction: San Francisco 49ers vs. Atlanta Falcons</span></a></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-68 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Miscellaneous:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/championship">Championship</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/super-bowl">super bowl</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/playoffs">playoffs</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-51 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Conferences:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-conferences/afc">AFC</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-lewis">Ray Lewis</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/brandon-lloyd">Brandon LLoyd</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/jacoby-jones">Jacoby Jones</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/rob-gronkowski">Rob Gronkowski</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/torrey-smith">Torrey Smith</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/wes-welker">Wes Welker</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/stevan-ridley">Stevan Ridley</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/terrell-suggs">Terrell Suggs</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/dennis-pitta">Dennis Pitta</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/bernard-pierce">Bernard Pierce</a></div></div></div>Sat, 19 Jan 2013 18:30:00 +0000Mark Ross19667 at http://athlonsports.comAFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncoshttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-baltimore-ravens-vs-denver-broncos
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
AFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncos&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
Arguably the NFL’s best offensive and defensive players of the past decade will go head-to-head one last time when the <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> and the <strong>Denver Broncos</strong> meet in Saturday’s AFC Divisional playoff game at 4:30 p.m. ET on CBS. The Ravens defeated Indianapolis 24-9 in last Sunday’s Wild Card game, allowing linebacker Ray Lewis the chance to celebrate a win in his final home game. All that stands between Lewis and extending his Hall of Fame career by at least one more game are the top-seeded Broncos, who are led by quarterback Peyton Manning. Manning is 9-2 in his career against Lewis’ Ravens, including a 2-0 mark in the playoffs, and No. 18 has not lost to them since 2001. The Broncos have won 11 games in a row, including a 34-17 victory over the Ravens in Baltimore on Dec. 16, a game that Lewis missed due to a triceps injury.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/15741-1/flacco.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Baltimore Ravens have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Baltimore’s offense finished the regular season ranked in the middle of the league in yards gained (352.5 ypg, 16th), but struggled down the stretch. The Ravens lost four of their final five games and averaged less than 320 yards of offense per game in those defeats. However, they turned it around in Sunday’s 24-9 Wild Card win over Indianapolis, piling up 441 yards. The Ravens are at their best when they are able to run the ball effectively, as evidenced by the 172 yards rushing they had against the Colts. Running back Ray Rice is the lead back, but the emergence of rookie Bernard Pierce has made the ground game that much more dangerous. Pierce, the Ravens’ third-round pick out of Temple, has averaged 105 yards rushing over his past three games, including a team-high 123 on just 13 carries (7.9 ypc) against the Colts. As a team, the Ravens averaged around 120 yards rushing per game during the regular season, and not surprisingly, they are 7-2 this season (including last week’s win) when the ground game reaches that mark. With the win over the Colts, quarterback <strong>Joe Flacco</strong> upped his career postseason record to 6-4, as he is the only starting quarterback in NFL history to win a playoff game in each of his first five seasons. Flacco threw for a career-high 3,817 yards during the regular season and had 282 yards passing against the Colts. He also had two touchdown passes and no interceptions, but for his career he is just a 54 percent passer in the playoffs with a 10:8 touchdown-to-interception ratio and an average of less than 182 yards passing per game. Just as he did during the regular season, veteran wide receiver Anquan Boldin was Flacco’s favorite target against the Colts, posting a Baltimore playoff-record 145 yards and the game-sealing touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. Tight end Dennis Pitta had the other touchdown reception in last Sunday’s win, and the Ravens need more production from vertical threat Torrey Smith (2 rec., 31 yds. vs. Colts) if they want to maximize production from the passing game. The Ravens’ offense could get a boost from return specialist Jacoby Jones, who averaged more than 30 yards per kickoff return during the regular season and had three (two kickoffs, one punt) special teams touchdowns. Two other areas of concerns for the Ravens’ offense have to be turnovers and pass protection. During the regular season, the Ravens finished tied with New England for the fewest turnovers in the AFC with 16, although Rice did lose two fumbles in the win over the Colts. After surrendering 38 sacks in the first 16 games, the Ravens’ offensive line only gave up one to the Colts. A similar, if not better, effort will be needed against Denver, as the Broncos tied for the league lead with 52 quarterback takedowns, including three of Flacco in their win in Baltimore back in December.</p>
<p>
If not for Manning’s MVP-worthy performance, Denver’s defense would be this season’s story in the Mile High city. The Broncos finished the regular season second only to Pittsburgh in total defense (290.8 ypg) and third in both rushing (91.1 ypg) and passing (199.6 ypg) defense. The Broncos also were fourth in scoring defense at 18.1 points per game and allowed more than 24 points only three times all season. Those games were the only three the Broncos have lost thus far, as the defense is holding opponents to less than 16 points per game during their current 11-game winning streak. This unit has given up more than 100 yards rushing once during this streak and has yet to allow more than 284 yards passing all season. The latter is even more impressive when you consider this defense has faced three quarterbacks — Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Matt Ryan — who finished among the top five in passing yards and touchdown passes. The secondary is led by All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey, who earned his 12th Pro Bowl invite this season and had two of the Broncos’ 16 interceptions. However, the front seven certainly can’t be ignored, as fellow Pro Bowlers linebacker Von Miller and defensive end Elvis Dumervil combined for 29.5 of the Broncos’ league-leading (tied with Rams) 52 sacks. In addition to the sacks, Miller, who is a contender for Defensive Player of the Year honors, forced six fumbles and returned an interception for a touchdown. Collectively, the Broncos’ defense scored six touchdowns of its own during the regular season, a pretty good return on the 24 total turnovers the unit produced.</p>
<p>
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33816-1/PeytonManning_2012_300.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 312px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Denver Broncos have the ball:</span></strong><br />
When <strong>Peyton Manning</strong> made the decision to sign with Denver after severing his ties with Indianapolis, everyone expected the Broncos’ offense to be better. However, I think it’s safe to say no one predicted Manning would pass for the second-most yards and touchdowns in his illustrious career, especially after missing all of 2011 and undergoing four separate surgeries on his neck. That’s just what happened, however, as Manning finished the regular season second only to reigning MVP Aaron Rodgers in passer rating (105.8) with 4,659 yards (sixth in NFL), 37 touchdowns (third) and just 11 interceptions. Whether or not Manning adds to his record four MVP trophies remains to be seen, but No. 18 is without a doubt the biggest reason why the Broncos’ offense ranked second in yards (397.9 per game) and points (30.1). Two other primary beneficiaries of Manning’s presence have been wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker, who have combined for 179 receptions, 2,498 yards and 23 touchdowns. Veteran Brandon Stokley and tight end Joel Dreessen each have five touchdown catches of their own, as seven different Broncos posted 21 or more receptions during the regular season. Although the statistical production may not show it, the running game also benefited from having No. 18 calling the plays. The Broncos averaged 114.5 yards rushing per game, which placed them only 16th in the league in that category, but the ground attack did produce 12 rushing touchdowns. Running back Willis McGahee was on pace for another 1,100-yard campaign when he tore his MCL and broke his leg in Week 11. McGahee is still the team's leading rusher with 731 yards and it’s possible he could return should the Broncos beat the Ravens and advance to the AFC Championship Game. In the meantime, Knowshon Moreno took over the starting job and has rushed for 510 yards and three scores in his last six games. Manning’s value under center can also be seen in the 21 sacks the Broncos have allowed, the second-fewest in the league. Turnovers have been a bit of an issue, as the Broncos have fumbled the ball away 14 times, although four of those lost fumbles belong to McGahee while Manning has none. Denver also added another weapon during the season in kick returner Trindon Holliday, who has returned a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown for the Broncos even though he started the season with Houston. Besides his production on special teams, Holliday holds a unique distinction in that he has yet to lose a game this season. He went 5-0 to open the season with the Texans before being released and picked up by Denver prior to the Broncos’ Week 6 game. Coming off a disappointing 31-21 loss in New England the week before, the Broncos came from behind to beat San Diego 35-24 on “Monday Night Football,” went on bye the next week and haven’t lost since, giving Holliday a perfect 16-0 mark on the season to this point.</p>
<p>
A top-10 unit in each of the past four seasons, the Baltimore defense took a step backwards this season, finishing the regular season ranked 17th in total defense at 350.9 yards per game. Even though the team stumbled to a 1-4 finish to close out the season, the defense posted its best performances in the final two games. The Giants and the Bengals were each held to less than 190 yards of offense, including a total of 114 yards rushing, when they played the Ravens in Weeks 16 and 17 respectively. The defense was unable to sustain this type of effort one more week, however, as the Colts piled up 419 yards on offense against them last Sunday, including 152 alone on the ground. Of course, Baltimore did hold the visitors to just nine points (on three field goals) on the scoreboard, which is the most important statistic of all. Even though the Ravens gave up a fair amount of yards during the regular season, the defense did do a respectable job of limiting the damage. They finished tied for 12th in the NFL in scoring defense at 21.5 points per game and only gave up 30 or more points four times. Unfortunately, they lost three of those games, including a 34-17 home defeat to the Broncos on Dec. 16. The Ravens’ pass defense, which allowed 228.1 yards per game in the regular season, finished higher in the rankings (17th) compared to their run defense (122.8 ypg, 20th). The defense also surrendered only 15 touchdown passes, which tied for the second-fewest allowed in the NFL, but this unit is well aware of the challenge that lies ahead in facing Peyton Manning and the Broncos’ offense, especially on their home turf. Injuries have had a significant impact on the defense, as both Lewis and defensive end Terrell Suggs missed at least half the regular season and cornerback Lardarius Webb was lost for the year back in Week 6. Lewis and Suggs are both back on the field, which can only help the Ravens, who will need to find a way to get pressure on Manning and force some turnovers in an effort to disrupt the Broncos’ offensive rhythm. The Ravens ended up in the middle of the pack in the regular season in sacks (37) and takeaways (25), but managed to bring down Indianapolis quarterback Andrew Luck three times and force him into two turnovers (INT, fumble) in last Sunday’s win.</p>
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<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Key Factor:</strong></span><br />
Baltimore is a playoff-tested team, having won at least one game in each of the past five postseasons, including last Sunday’s Wild Card win over Indianapolis. That said, this is a tough test for the Ravens, who have to go into Denver to play the Broncos, the AFC’s top seed, a team that tied Atlanta for the most wins in the regular season (13) and hasn’t lost since Oct. 7. Then there’s the Peyton Manning factor, as No. 18 has won nine games in a row over the Ravens, including two postseason matchups. As good as Manning has been in his first season in a Broncos’ uniform, this team is anything but one-dimensional, as the defense has also been playing at a high level throughout. This Baltimore team will run through a brick wall for Ray Lewis, their defensive and emotional leader, but the only way I see the Ravens pulling this one out is if they can find a way to turn back the clock a few years and field that vintage defense from their 2006 championship season. And even then, I’m not sure that would be enough because of the strength of Denver’s defense. It has been a remarkable and legendary career for No. 52, but Lewis’ “last ride” comes in Denver. And as one future Hall of Famer says good-bye, the focus will then shift to see if a fellow Canton-bound legend can lead his new team to the Super Bowl just a year after not taking a single snap.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong> <span style="font-size:18px;">Broncos 27, Ravens 17</span></p>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><strong>Related:</strong></span></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14px;"><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-houston-texans-vs-new-england-patriots&quot;" target="_blank">AFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots</a><br />
<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-green-bay-packers-vs-san-francisco-49ers" target="_blank">NFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers</a><br />
<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-divisional-playoff-preview-and-prediction-seattle-seahawks-vs-atlanta-falcons" target="_blank">NFC Divisional Playoff Preview and Prediction: Seattle Seahawks vs. Atlanta Falcons</a></span></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/denver-broncos">Denver Broncos</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-68 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Miscellaneous:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/playoffs">playoffs</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/divisional">Divisional</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-51 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Conferences:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-conferences/afc">AFC</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/peyton-manning">Peyton Manning</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-lewis">Ray Lewis</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/eric-decker">Eric Decker</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/jacoby-jones">Jacoby Jones</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/elvis-dumervil">Elvis Dumervil</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/champ-bailey">Champ Bailey</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/willis-mcgahee">Willis McGahee</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/von-miller">Von Miller</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/torrey-smith">Torrey Smith</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/terrell-suggs">Terrell Suggs</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/demaryius-thomas">Demaryius Thomas</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/dennis-pitta">Dennis Pitta</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/trindon-holliday">Trindon Holliday</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/knowshown-moreno">Knowshown Moreno</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/bernard-pierce">Bernard Pierce</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/brandon-stokley">Brandon Stokley</a></div></div></div>Fri, 11 Jan 2013 18:00:00 +0000Mark Ross19405 at http://athlonsports.comAFC Wild Card Preview and Prediction: Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravenshttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-wild-card-preview-and-prediction-indianapolis-colts-vs-baltimore-ravens
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
AFC Wild Card Preview and Prediction: Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
The NFL’s feel-good story of the 2012 season will collide with what will be the final chapter of a legendary career when the <strong>Indianapolis Colts</strong> and <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> take the field for Sunday’s AFC Wild Card game at 1 p.m. ET on CBS. On one sideline are the Colts (11-5), who have won five out of their last six games and got Chuck Pagano, their head coach and inspirational leader, back on the sidelines last week. On the other are the Ravens (10-6), who dropped four of their final five to stumble to the finish, but will be riding their own wave of emotion as Ray Lewis, their defensive leader and the heart and soul of this team, gears up for one “last ride.”<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/34606-1/Luck-Inset.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Indianapolis Colts have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Indianapolis’ offense ended the regular season ranked 10th in the NFL in yards gained with 362.4 per game and tied for 18th in scoring with 22.3 points per contest. The Colts were 22nd in rushing offense (104.4 ypg) and seventh in passing offense (258.0), as quarterback <strong>Andrew Luck</strong> set the NFL record for passing yards (4,374) by a rookie quarterback. Although the No. 1 overall pick came three touchdown passes shy of matching predecessor Peyton Manning’s 26 in 1998, he threw 10 fewer interceptions (18 compared to 28) than No. 18 did in his first season and also led his team to the playoffs. The Colts’ reliance on Luck was due somewhat to a running game that managed just 3.8 yards per carry. Running back Vick Ballard has emerged as the lead backfield option, but he’s had just one 100-yard game and has scored two rushing touchdowns. Compare that to Luck, who has five rushing scores with nearly 150 fewer carries than Ballard. Veteran wide receiver Reggie Wayne, one of the few remaining holdovers from the Manning era, put together another Pro Bowl-caliber season with a team-high 106 receptions (sixth in NFL) and 1,355 yards (seventh), but it’s another rookie, fellow wideout T.Y. Hilton who leads the way with seven touchdown catches and is averaging 17.2 yards per reception. If there are any concerns when it comes to Luck, they are those related to his 54.1 completion percentage, which is the second-lowest among qualified starting quarterbacks, the interceptions (18, tied for third-most), and that he’s been sacked 41 times. In addition to the picks, the Colts have fumbled the ball away nine times.</p>
<p>
Consistently ranked among the top defenses in the league, Baltimore’s unit took a step backwards this season. The Ravens finished the regular season 17th in total defense, giving up 350.9 yards per game, and tied for 12th in scoring defense at 21.5 points per game. Statistically speaking, the Ravens fared better against the pass (228.1 ypg, 17th) compared to the run (122.8 ypg, 20th). What’s more, the defense allowed only 15 touchdown passes, which tied for the second-fewest in the NFL. The Ravens were in the middle of the pack when it came to sacks (37) and forced a total of 25 turnovers, including 13 interceptions, during the regular season.</p>
<p>
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21141-1/Flacco+J.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Baltimore Ravens have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Baltimore’s offense ranked 16th in the league in total offense (352.5 ypg), but 10th in scoring at nearly 25 points per game. The Ravens were 11th in rushing offense with 118.8 yards per game, as running back Ray Rice went over 1,100 yards rushing for the fourth straight season. They ended up 15th in passing offense (233.7 ypg) with <strong>Joe Flacco</strong> throwing for a career-high 3,817 yards, along with 22 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions. For all the criticism levied at Flacco, don’t forget that he’s the only starting quarterback in NFL history to make the playoffs in each of his first five seasons. As far as Flacco’s pass-catchers go, veteran wide receiver Anquan Boldin led the team with 65 receptions and 921 yards, while Torrey Smith established himself as a legitimate vertical threat (17.4 ypc, 8 TDs). Tight end Dennis Pitta and Rice also were reliable targets, each posting 61 receptions with Pitta hauling in seven scoring strikes. The Ravens also have a viable weapon in return specialist Jacoby Jones, who averaged 30.7 yards per kickoff return and brought back two of them as well as a punt for touchdowns. His production earned him an invite to next month’s Pro Bowl as the AFC’s kick returner. Sacks (38) were somewhat of an issue, but ball security was not as the Ravens only turned it over 16 times, which tied them with the Patriots for the fewest in the AFC.</p>
<p>
Of all the playoff teams, only Washington’s defense finished lower in the total defense rankings than Indianapolis’. The Colts were No. 26 in terms of yards allowed (Redskins No. 28), surrendering more than 374 per contest. The main culprit was the run defense, which ranked 29th due to the 137.5 yards rushing allowed per game. Their pass defense ranked 21st (236.8 ypg), as did the scoring defense (24.2 ppg). Two other factors that didn’t necessarily help were an inability to produce sacks (32) and turnovers. The Colts’ defense forced a total of 15 turnovers, including just three fumbles. That total is the second-fewest takeaways in the AFC.</p>
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<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Key Factor:</strong></span><br />
There has been no better story in the NFL this season than Indianapolis and this young team rallying behind their head coach, Chuck Pagano. This Colts team has been “Chuckstrong” throughout and for Pagano this matchup with Baltimore represents a homecoming of sorts. Pagano was on the Ravens’ coaching staff from 2008-11, the last year serving as the team’s defensive coordinator, so he’s well familiar with the personnel. And that’s especially the case with Ray Lewis, the Ravens’ All-Pro linebacker who announced earlier this week that he will retire at the end of this season. As great as the Colts’ story has been and as much as the Ravens like and respect Pagano, Lewis is one of their own and I don’t see this team sending him off with a home loss. The Colts may have more wins and come into this one with more momentum, but this is still a flawed team, especially on defense, while the Ravens have won their past four opening playoff games. Have no fear Ravens fans, Lewis’ “last ride” won’t end on Sunday.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong> <span style="font-size:18px;">Ravens 24, Colts 17</span></p>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><strong>Related:</strong></span></p>
<p>
<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/afc-wild-card-preview-and-prediction-cincinnati-bengals-vs-houston-texans" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14px;">AFC Wild Card Preview and Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Houston Texans</span></a><br />
<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-wild-card-preview-and-prediction-minnesota-vikings-vs-green-bay-packers" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14px;">NFC Wild Card Preview and Prediction: Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers</span></a><br />
<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/nfl/nfc-wild-card-preview-and-prediction-seattle-seahawks-vs-washington-redskins" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14px;">NFC Wild Card Preview and Prediction: Seattle Seahawks vs. Washington Redskins</span></a></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-68 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Miscellaneous:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/wild-card">Wild Card</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/playoffs">playoffs</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-51 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Conferences:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-conferences/afc">AFC</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/jacoby-jones">Jacoby Jones</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/reggie-wayne">Reggie Wayne</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/torrey-smith">Torrey Smith</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/andrew-luck">Andrew Luck</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/dennis-pitta">Dennis Pitta</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/vick-ballard">Vick Ballard</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ty-hilton">T.Y. Hilton</a></div></div></div>Sat, 05 Jan 2013 14:00:00 +0000Mark Ross19209 at http://athlonsports.comNew York Giants vs. Baltimore Ravens Preview and Predictionhttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/new-york-giants-vs-baltimore-ravens-preview-and-prediction
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
New York Giants vs. Baltimore Ravens Preview and Prediction&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
The <strong>New York Giants</strong> will try and keep their playoff hopes alive by handing the <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> a fourth straight defeat when they meet at 4:25 p.m. ET this afternoon on FOX. The defending Super Bowl champion Giants (8-6) must rebound from last week’s disheartening 34-0 loss in Atlanta if they want to have any chance at a possible repeat, while the Ravens (9-5) would like to turn things around in their quest to win a second straight AFC North crown.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/6760-1/Eli-Manning1.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the New York Giants have the ball:</span></strong><br />
New York’s offense is sixth in the NFL in scoring at 26.6 points per game and 10th in total offense at 364.6 yards per game. The Giants have been fairly balanced on offense, ranking ninth in passing (249.6 ypg) and 15th in rushing (115 ypg). The ground game has been a collaborative effort, as running back Ahmad Bradshaw leads the way with 869 yards rushing, but his inability to stay on the field has presented opportunities to both Andre Brown and rookie David Wilson. Brown, who has a team-high eight rushing touchdowns, broke his leg in Week 10 and won’t be eligible to return until the Super Bowl, if the Giants even make it that far. Wilson has been productive (155 yards rushing last two games) after finally receiving sustained playing time, and he and Bradshaw could provide a productive one-two punch out of the backfield. That would be a huge help to quarterback <strong>Eli Manning</strong>, who has struggled at times during the season and has just 20 touchdown passes compared to 15 interceptions. Manning has several legitimate weapons in wide receivers Victor Cruz (79-1,019-9), Hakeem Nicks (53-692-3) and tight end Martellus Bennett (five TD catches). They just haven’t been able to do as much damage this season compared to last year when Manning had nearly 5,000 yards passing, 29 touchdowns and only 16 picks. The offensive line has done its job keeping Manning’s jersey clean, allowing a league-low 16 sacks, and other than the interceptions, the team has fumbled it away just six times. Turnovers have not been a big issue, as the team’s +13 differential between giveaways and takeaways ranks fourth overall.</p>
<p>
Baltimore’s defense has not been nearly as stout this season as it has in the past. The Ravens, one of the NFL’s stingiest defenses for years, ranks just 26th in total defense, as the unit has given up nearly 375 yards per game. It has done a good job of mitigating the damage, as they are allowing less than 22 points per contest, which places them 13th in the league in that category. The Ravens have been susceptible to both the run (132.2 ypg, 26th) and pass (242.1 ypg, 22nd), as injuries have resulted in several key players, such as Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs and Lardarius Webb, missing a significant number of games. They are in the middle of the pack when it comes to sacks (32) and have forced a total of 25 (13 INTs, 12 fumbles) turnovers. One other interesting stat to note: the Ravens are tied for first in the NFL in fewest touchdown passes allowed with 13, but 26th in rushing scores surrendered (14).</p>
<p>
<strong><span style="font-size: 18px;"><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21141-1/Flacco+J.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 4px; float: right;" />When the Baltimore Ravens have the ball:</span></strong><br />
Baltimore’s offense has had its share of ups and downs throughout the season, one of the reasons why offensive coordinator Cam Cameron was recently relieved of his duties. The Ravens are 21st in the NFL in total offense (339.6 ypg) and 12th in scoring (24.9 ppg). They rank 22nd in rushing offense (105.1 ypg), as Ray Rice has surpassed 1,000 yards for the fourth straight season. Baltimore is 14th in passing offense (234.6 ypg) with quarterback <strong>Joe Flacco</strong> throwing twice as many touchdowns (20) as interceptions (10). Wide receiver Torrey Smith is the team’s deep threat (17.4 ypc, seven TDs), but he needs to be more consistent on a week in, week out basis. Fellow wideout Anquan Boldin is a reliable target for Flacco, as is Rice out of the backfield, while tight end Dennis Pitta is tied with Smith for the team lead in touchdown catches with seven. The offense has done its part in holding on to the ball, as the team has turned it over just 15 times (third-fewest in AFC) so far.</p>
<p>
New York’s defense has been fairly generous this season as it applies to yards allowed, but that hasn’t been the case when it comes to the story on the scoreboard. The Giants rank near the bottom (28th) in total defense at 377.4 yards per game, but are 12th in scoring defense, allowing less than 22 points per contest. Unfortunately, over its last three games, wins over Green Bay and New Orleans and a significant loss to Washington, this unit has seen its yards allowed average to rise to 417 per game. The passing defense (253.7 ypg) has been the biggest culprit and scapegoat this season, but the rushing defense (123.7 ypg, 22nd) has had its own issues. The key for this defense has been in keeping opponents out of the end zone and generating turnovers. Even with all of the yards gained against them, the Giants have yielded just eight rushing touchdowns (tied for sixth-fewest in the NFL) and only 23 touchdown passes. The defense is in the middle of the pack when it comes to sacks (32, tied for 16th), but this unit has forced the third-most turnovers (34) and also is third in the league in interceptions with 20.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Key Factor:</strong></span><br />
Both New York and Baltimore could really use a win here, but for entirely different reasons. The Giants need a victory just to stay alive in the NFC East race, as the defending Super Bowl champions find themselves looking up at both the Redskins and Cowboys with just two games remaining. The Ravens have already clinched a playoff spot, but still have business to take care of to wrap up a second straight AFC North title, and also just need to win to put an end to their current three-game losing streak. The Giants have been in this situation before, as they needed to win their final two games last season just to make the playoffs as the NFC East champions, so this is really nothing new to this veteran team. The Ravens have plenty of experience of their own, but appear to be a team finding its way, especially on offense. That’s never a good sign, but especially this late in the season. So even though the Giants are on the road and have their backs to the wall, I think the reigning champs find a way to get it done against the Ravens, as Eli Manning and the passing attack leads the way to victory. Rookie David Wilson also chips in with a key kickoff return at some point in the second half to set up a critical scoring drive as well.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Prediction:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size:18px;">Giants 27, Ravens 23</span></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/new-york-giants">New York Giants</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/eli-manning">Eli Manning</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-lewis">Ray Lewis</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/hakeem-nicks">Hakeem Nicks</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ahmad-bradshaw">Ahmad Bradshaw</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/victor-cruz">Victor Cruz</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/torrey-smith">Torrey Smith</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/terrell-suggs">Terrell Suggs</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/martellus-bennett">Martellus Bennett</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/david-wilson">David Wilson</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/andre-brown">Andre Brown</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/dennis-pitta">Dennis Pitta</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/lardarius-webb">Lardarius Webb</a></div></div></div>Sun, 23 Dec 2012 13:00:00 +0000Mark Ross18735 at http://athlonsports.com10 Greatest NFL Rookie Seasons of All-Timehttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/top-10-nfl-rookie-seasons-all-time
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
The best first-year players in NFL history, including Eric Dickerson, Lawrence Taylor, Randy Moss, Cam Newton, Barry Sanders, Gale Sayers, Jevon Kearse, Anquan Boldin, Ben Roethlisberger and Edgerrin James.&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33326-1/CAM-702.jpg" style="width: 665px; height: 261px; " /></p>
<p>
It's rare that a first-year player comes into the NFL and has an immediate impact on the game. But it does happen. Athlon Sports looks back at the best rookie players in NFL history, or at least since Gale Sayers took the field in 1965.</p>
<p>
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>1. Eric Dickerson, RB, Los Angeles Rams, 1983</strong></span><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33718-1/Eric_Dickerson.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 343px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
<br />
Sure, Dickerson took a pay cut from his days as an SMU Mustang to be a member of the L.A. Rams. But the No. 2 overall pick didn’t let that stop him. Dickerson put on his goggles, put a helmet over his jheri curl — which was the fashion of the day? — and ran 390 carries for 1,808 yards and 18 TDs, while also hauling in 51 catches for 404 yards and two trips to the end zone.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>2. Lawrence Taylor, OLB, New York Giants, 1981</strong></span><br />
<br />
Bill Parcells undoubtedly took all of the credit for the athletic genius that was L.T. But the Giants’ first-year defensive coordinator just happened to hit the good-timing lottery with the No. 2 overall pick out of North Carolina. Taylor terrorized the league and began redefining the outside linebacker position en route to winning Defensive Player of the Year honors as a rookie.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>3. Randy Moss, WR, Minnesota Vikings, 1998</strong></span><br />
<br />
After falling all the way to No. 21 overall in the 1998 NFL Draft, Moss made his doubters pay — “straight cash, homey?” — with 69 catches for 1,313 yards and 17 TDs as a rookie. The Dallas Cowboys’ tab was the biggest, however. Randy dropped a three-catch, 163-yard, three-TD turkey at Jerry Jones’ old house in Dallas, during a Thanksgiving Day performance even tryptophan couldn’t slow down.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33031-1/Cam_Newton.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 342px; margin: 5px; float: right; " />4. Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers, 2011</strong></span><br />
<br />
The self-proclaimed “entertainer and icon” lived up to his ego as a rookie. Cammy Cam Juice powered a video-game-gaudy stat line. Newton completed 60 percent of his passes for 4,051 yards and 21 TDs through the air, while scrambling for 706 yards and 14 TDs on the ground for the Cats.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>5. Barry Sanders, RB, Detroit Lions, 1989</strong></span><br />
<br />
Barry talked and walked softly, but the decibel level was off the charts whenever he cut, spun and sprinted. A classical composer of highlight-reel footage, Sanders started strong — with 1,470 rush yards and 14 TDs as a rookie — and never missed a beat until his abrupt retirement prior to the 1999 season. In fact, he’s still the Lions’ best option at running back.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>6. Gale Sayers, RB-KR-PR, Chicago Bears, 1965</strong></span><br />
<br />
It only took Sayers 14 games to score 22 TDs. The triple-threat runner-receiver-returner hit paydirt with 14 rushing scores, six receiving TDs, one kick return and another punt return. Of the 56 career TDs that Sayers scored, 22 came during his marvelous rookie campaign.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>7. Jevon Kearse, DE, Tennessee Titans, 1999</strong></span><br />
<br />
Never was the Freak more freakish than during his 1999 party, when he was a Super Freak capable of stomping on Charlie Murphy’s couch and bringing any girl he wanted home to mama. Or, he was a really disruptive pass rusher. However it’s phrased, Kearse had 14.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, was runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year and carried the Titans to a runner-up finish in Super Bowl XXXIV.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/19346-1/Boldin.jpg " style="width: 250px; height: 327px; margin: 5px; float: right; " />8. Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona Cardinals, 2003</strong></span><br />
<br />
Not only did Boldin have one of the greatest first seasons in NFL history, he had one of the best first games of all-time. His 10-catch, 217-yard, two-TD Week 1 explosion nearly detonated the internet, as fantasy football owners worldwide hit the web looking for a smoking hot waiver wire pickup. For those whose dial-up was fast enough, Boldin was a boon, with 101 catches for 1,377 yards and eight TDs.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>9. Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers, 2004</strong></span><br />
<br />
Before the multiple Super Bowls and rape accusations, Big Ben was just a wide-eyed kid trying to avoid being yelled at (and subsequently spit on) by Bill Cowher’s lispy jaw. And he did a damn fine job, completing 66.4 percent of his passes for a 98.1 passer rating, while going 13–0 as a starter, with six game-winning drives and five fourth-quarter comebacks as a rook.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>10. Edgerrin James, RB, Indianapolis Colts, 1999</strong></span><br />
<br />
The Edge may never get the credit he deserves. But prior to mid-prime (sub-prime?) knee injury, James was one of the all-time great runners. Replacing Marshall Faulk should not have been as easy as Edgerrin made it seem, posting 1,553 rush yards, 586 receiving yards and 17 total TDs as the Colts’ top thoroughbred. Turns out, Bill Polian made the right move by drafting James ahead of Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/randy-moss">Randy Moss</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/cam-newton">Cam Newton</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ben-roethlisberger">Ben Roethlisberger</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/lawrence-taylor">Lawrence Taylor</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/barry-sanders">Barry Sanders</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/eric-dickerson">Eric Dickerson</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/gale-sayers">Gale Sayers</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/jevon-kearse">Jevon Kearse</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/edgerrin-james">Edgerrin James</a></div></div></div>Fri, 05 Oct 2012 17:36:37 +0000Nathan Rush13119 at http://athlonsports.comNew England Patriots vs. Baltimore Ravens Preview and Predictionhttp://athlonsports.com/nfl/new-england-patriots-vs-baltimore-ravens-preview-and-prediction
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
New England Patriots vs. Baltimore Ravens Preview and Prediction&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21366-1/Ray+Rice.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 287px; margin: 5px; float: right;" />Two elite teams will be looking to avoid a 1-2 start when the <strong>Baltimore Ravens&nbsp;</strong>host the <strong>New England Patriots</strong> tonight at 8:20 p.m. EST on NBC. Much will be made about the heartbreaking nature of Baltimore’s AFC Championship Game loss in New England last season, but the reality is that both of these squads with Super Bowl aspirations need to rebound from excruciating losses last week. The Ravens blew a 10-pont halftime lead in Philadelphia and lost 24-23 to the Eagles, while Patriots suffered a rare 20-18 home defeat to the Arizona Cardinals.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>When the Baltimore Ravens have the ball:</strong></span><br />
It all starts with tailback <strong>Ray Rice</strong>, who has gone over 2,000 total yards in two of the last three seasons. The diminutive but powerful runner is off to another good start, totaling 167 yards on the ground and ranking second on the team with nine receptions. Quarterback Joe Flacco has found a new favorite target in tight end Dennis Pitta, who leads Baltimore with 13 catches. To beat New England, however, Flacco will need to involve receivers Torrey Smith and Anquan Boldin more in the offense.<br />
<br />
The Patriots defense struggled for much of last season, but rookies Chandler Jones and Dont’a Hightower have already paid dividends this year. New England was able to contain Rice (67 rush yards and just one catch) in last season’s 23-20 AFC title tilt victory, and that will be a key again tonight. Boldin and Smith can be effective if Flacco has time to throw, so the Patriots will look for another three-sack performance like they had last January.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">When the New England Patriots have the ball:</span></strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/33364-1/StevanRidley_2012_300.jpg" style="width: 220px; height: 275px; margin: 5px; float: right;" /><br />
Quarterback Tom Brady was rattled in week’s loss to the Cardinals, who had four sacks and an interception. One factor that will help protect Brady is a strong running game, and second-year back <strong>Stevan Ridley</strong> has 196 yards and a score in two games this season. Receiver Wes Welker only has eight catches (low by his standards) this year, and it will be interesting to see if he is a bigger focus for the offense against Baltimore. With tight end Aaron Hernandez out, the Patriots signed former first-round pick Kellen Winslow Jr. this week.<br />
<br />
After a solid Week 1 performance against the Bengals, the Ravens defense allowed 17 second-half points in the Eagles loss. Ray Lewis and company will need to pressure Brady, and Baltimore has compiled six sacks this season. While it’s easy to concentrate on all of New England’s pass catchers, the Ravens must also contain Ridley. Baltimore has allowed 258 rushing in two games, and that must improve versus the Patriots.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size:18px;">Key Factor:</span></strong><br />
The Ravens allowed an alarming 486 total yards in Philadelphia, the highest total their defense had given up since 1998. They simply must be better against New England’s usually prolific offense. Baltimore’s ability to make Brady uncomfortable in the pocket should decide this game. The Patriots almost never lose twice in row under coach Bill Belichick, so we’ll take New England in a tight thriller.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Prediction:</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size:18px;">Patriots 27 Ravens 23</span><br />
<br />
<br />
---<em>By Patrick Snow</em> (<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://twitter.com/AthlonSnowman" target="_blank">@AthlonSnowman</a>)<br />
</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-52 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Divisions:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-divisions/afc">AFC</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-lewis">Ray Lewis</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/wes-welker">Wes Welker</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/stevan-ridley">Stevan Ridley</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/chandler-jones">Chandler Jones</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/dont%E2%80%99-hightower">Dont’a Hightower</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/dennis-pitta">Dennis Pitta</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/torrey-snith">Torrey Snith</a></div></div></div>Sun, 23 Sep 2012 10:14:48 +0000Patrick Snow12509 at http://athlonsports.comFantasy Football 2012: Breaking Down the Baltimore Ravenshttp://athlonsports.com/fantasy/fantasy-football-2012-breaking-down-baltimore-ravens
<div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
Fantasy Football 2012: Breaking Down the Baltimore Ravens&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
What can the <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> do for you this fantasy season? Check out Athlon Sports' team report as we break down the rookies, veteran players to watch and avoid, fantasy playoff schedule and more to help you get ready for the 2012 season.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong><img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/21141-1/Flacco+J.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 392px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid; margin: 5px; float: right;" />Inside the Locker Room</strong></span><br />
with Aaron Wilson, <em>Carroll (Md.) County Times</em></p>
<p>
<strong>Has Joe Flacco topped out or is there another level of production in store for Flacco owners?</strong><br />
Flacco has the necessary weapons, arm strength and accuracy to regularly produce 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns per season. Where we could see an upgraded Flacco is through improved fundamentals taught by new quarterbacks coach Jim Caldwell. The primary obstacle to bigger numbers, however, is the Ravens’ reliance on Pro Bowl running back Ray Rice in a run-first offense and Flacco’s tendency to use Rice so much as a safety valve.</p>
<p>
<strong>Can Torrey Smith build on his stellar rookie season and become a No. 1 wide receiver?</strong><br />
Smith is capable of expanding his game and becoming a more complete downfield target, something he proved when his hands gradually improved toward the end of last season. He’s a legitimate big-play threat who’s also being utilized now on intermediate routes in addition to fly patterns and bubble screens. Where Smith needs to continue to hone his game is by catching the football cleanly on a consistent basis. His speed is rare, but the continued presence of veteran Anquan Boldin on the roster means he’ll still be sharing the workload.</p>
<p>
<strong>Is Ed Dickson going to be the primary tight end or will Dennis Pitta steal enough targets to keep Dickson off fantasy rosters?</strong><br />
The Ravens’ plan is to utilize both tight ends, with Dickson slated to receive more targets than Pitta. While Dickson’s strengths are his superior size and explosiveness, Pitta has arguably the best hands on the team.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Athlon's Best Bets</strong></span></p>
<p>
<strong>Sleeper</strong>: Torrey Smith, WR<br />
<strong>Deep-Sleeper: </strong>Ed Dickson, TE<br />
<strong>Overvalued: </strong>Anquan Boldin, WR<br />
<strong>Top Rookie: </strong>Courtney Upshaw, LB<br />
<strong>Bounce-Back: </strong>None<br />
<strong>Top IDP: </strong>Ray Lewis, LB</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>2012 Draft Class</strong></span></p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">2.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Courtney Upshaw</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">OLB</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-2</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">272</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Alabama</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">2.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Kelechi Osemele</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">G</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-5</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">333</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Iowa State</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">3.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Bernard Pierce</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">RB</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-0</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">218</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Temple</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">4.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Gino Gradkowski</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">C</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-3</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">300</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Delaware</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">4.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Christian Thompson</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">S</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-0</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">211</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">S. Carolina St.</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">5.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Asa Jackson</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">CB</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">5-10</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">191</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Cal Poly</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">6.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">Tommy Streeter</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">WR</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-5</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">220</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Miami (Fla.)</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">7.</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-size:12px;">DeAngelo Tyson</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">DE</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">6-2</span></td>
<td class="rtecenter">
<span style="font-size:12px;">315</span></td>
<td class="rteright">
<span style="font-size:12px;">Georgia</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Fantasy Impact: </strong></span>The Ravens traded out of the first round but landed an instant impact player in Courtney Upshaw. With Terrell Suggs suffering a torn Achilles, Baltimore needs Upshaw to help with the pass rush in 2012. He could be a sleeper to target in IDP leagues. With Ben Grubbs signing with New Orleans, Kelechi Osemele has a chance to start at guard. Bernard Pierce will back up Ray Rice and should be a handcuff pick in all formats.</p>
<p class="rtecenter">
<img alt="" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/32608-1/2012_Fantasy_BAL_schedule.png" style="width: 475px; height: 455px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid;" /></p>
<p>
<strong style="font-size: 20px; ">Fantasy Playoff Run: Weeks 14-16 (at WAS, DEN, NYG)</strong></p>
<p>
Ray Rice, last season’s top fantasy points collector at the running back position, will face two defenses in the semifinals and finals of most fantasy postseasons that were 11th- and 12th-worst against fantasy running backs. And Rice should be used in bulk these three weeks, as the Ravens try to slow down pass offenses led by Robert Griffin III, Peyton Manning and Eli Manning.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:16px;"><strong>Dominate Your Fantasy Football League! <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/FantasyHelp" target="_blank">Click here</a> for the ultimate online resource for mock drafts, positional rankings, Athlon's Top 250 and more.</strong></span></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:22px;"><strong>You can order your award-winning Athlon Sports NFL Fantasy Football preview magazine&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://shop.athlonsports.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</strong></span></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-53 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Teams:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-68 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Miscellaneous:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/miscellaneous/fantasy-football">Fantasy Football</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-54 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">NFL Players:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ed-dickson">Ed Dickson</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/torrey-smith">Torrey Smith</a></div></div></div>Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:02:00 +0000Athlon Sports11815 at http://athlonsports.comFantasy Football: Players To Avoidhttp://athlonsports.com/columns/5-burning-questions/fantasy-football-their-last-legs
<div class="field field-name-field-subtitle field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">A look at players you might want to start phasing out in keeper/dynasty leagues</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-column field-type-node-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/columns/5-burning-questions">5 Burning Questions</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-landing-featured field-type-list-boolean field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
If you are in a keeper or dynasty league, we believe the following players will begin their descent down the rankings after this season.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Steven Jackson, RB – STL </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 14<br />
Jackson, one of the league’s last true workhorses, turned 28 in July. Even at such a young age, he’s already cracked the NFL’s top 40 in career carries with 1,878. He’s bounced back from missing a combined eight games in 2007 and ’08, but the Rams still probably won't be involving Cadillac Williams or Jerious Norwood in the game plan enough to releive pressure from Jackson.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Michael Turner, RB – ATL </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 16<br />
Turner’s YPC average dropped to a career-low 4.1 last season, and that was with a cohesive offensive line. The Falcons’ front wall could have three starters leave via free agency, and several untested youngsters would fill the holes. Add the potential deep threat of Julio Jones, and Turner may not be needed or able to roll the kinds of numbers we’re used to seeing.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Reggie Wayne, WR – IND </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 27<br />
In single-season leagues, Wayne is still elite. If you have to plan for next year, though, free agency could rear its ugly head. Wayne still produces like a top-10 receiver, but at the age of 32, will the Colts be willing to pay him like one until he’s 37 or 38?</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Anquan Boldin, WR – BAL </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 51<br />
Boldin’s chemistry with QB Joe Flacco was slow to develop last season, so the two worked together as much as possible during the lockout. Even so, the Ravens will also look to get rookies Torrey Smith and Tandon Doss up to speed with Flacco. Boldin absorbs a lot of shots and will be 31 in October, so tailor your expectations when deciding what receivers to keep.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Cedric Benson, RB – CIN </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 60<br />
There's a lot of wear on these tires. Benson ranks fourth amongst running backs in touches per game over the last three seasons at 22 TPG (901 overall over 41 games). There aren't a lot of options in Cincy with rookie Andy Dalton quarterbacking the team, so the ball will find itself in Benson's hands a lot this season as well. So add another 300 touches and that's 1,200 touches on a player that will be 30 near the end of next season.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Tony Gonzalez, TE – ATL </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 123<br />
It’s not breaking news that Gonzalez is getting old (35 this season). The developing news is how the Falcons’ offense will integrate rookie Julio Jones and to what extent the deep ball will be emphasized. If Jones’ speed becomes a focal point quickly, there will be much less need for Matt Ryan to target his tight end 100-plus times.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>LaDainian Tomlinson, RB – NYJ </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 97<br />
L.T. leaped off the line like a classic muscle car in 2010, averaging 106 yards from scrimmage in the first five games. From Week 6 on, the car had a flat. In the season’s last 11 games, he averaged 3.3 yards per carry. In the last five, he caught only nine passes for 53 yards. Whether he even stays in the game could be riding on how he produces this season.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Steve Smith, WR – CAR </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">Athlon Top 280 Rank:</a> 108<br />
His flagging production can be blamed on bad quarterback play even more than the aging process. Still, Smith Version 1.0 has dealt with nagging injuries for years (2004 was his last 16-game season) and a nagging one already sidelined him this training camp (a finger injury).</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">IDPs</span><br />
Charles Woodson, DB – GB </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-football-ranks-top-100-idps" target="_blank">Athlon Top 100 IDP Rank:</a> 31<br />
Soon to be 35, Woodson carries the perpetual threat of retirement. Even this year’s production may be restricted by his increased use as a slot corner. He can attack running backs and force fumbles like no other CB in the game, but don’t plan on a huge interception total.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Ray Lewis, LB – BAL </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-football-ranks-top-100-idps" target="_blank">Athlon Top 100 IDP Rank:</a> 34<br />
Lewis’ continuing production is impressive. Still, his coverage ability is beginning to suffer thanks to Father Time, and it’s possible that he may continue to soldier on when his tackling begins to do the same. He remains a leader on the field, but there are better (read: younger) options for your fantasy squad.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Brian Urlacher, LB – CHI </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-football-ranks-top-100-idps" target="_blank">Athlon Top 100 IDP Rank:</a> 45<br />
Dhani Jones didn’t rate him as one of the league’s top 10 linebackers, and many might agree. Like Lewis and London Fletcher, he’s still productive despite his creeping age, and younger players are racking up comparable numbers. Draft them first.</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>London Fletcher, LB – WAS </strong></span><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-football-ranks-top-100-idps" target="_blank">Athlon Top 100 IDP Rank: </a>99<br />
A linebacker playing in 208 straight games is an incredible feat. Fletcher is 36 years old and still producing, but the linebacker position has a fresh jolt of talent on the rise. Even if London keeps calling on opposing ballcarriers, it’s hard to draft him over guys like Lawrence Timmons or A.J. Hawk.</p>
<p>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>More Fantasy Football Cheat Sheets and Rankings:</strong></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Top 280</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-football-ranks-top-240-widps" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Top 240 w/ IDPs</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-qbs" target="_blank"><br />
2</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-qbs">011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks<br />
2</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire-report/2011-fantasy-ranks-rbs" target="_blank">011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-wrs" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-tes" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-kickers" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Kickers</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="../../columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-defenses" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Defense/Special Teams</a></span></span></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-exclude-from-games field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Exclude From Games:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-featured-weight field-type-list-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">3</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-template field-type-list-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Two Right Sidebar Images</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomyextra field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Taxonomy upgrade extras:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-lewis">Ray Lewis</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/cedric-benson">Cedric Benson</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/tony-gonzalez">Tony Gonzalez</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/michael-turner">Michael Turner</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/steven-jackson">Steven Jackson</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/brian-urlacher">Brian Urlacher</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/reggie-wayne">Reggie Wayne</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/charles-woodson">Charles Woodson</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/london-fletcher">London Fletcher</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/section/fantasy">Fantasy</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;p&gt;
If you are in a keeper or dynasty league, we believe the following players will begin their descent down the rankings after this season.&lt;/p&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-body2 field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <br />
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author-byline field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <br />
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-include-in-newsletter field-type-list-boolean field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div>Sun, 21 Aug 2011 13:00:37 +0000Athlon Sports6085 at http://athlonsports.comFantasy Football: Breaking down the Baltimore Ravenshttp://athlonsports.com/columns/winning-game-plan/fantasy-football-breaking-down-baltimore-ravens
<div class="field field-name-field-column field-type-node-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/columns/winning-game-plan">Winning Game Plan</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-landing-featured field-type-list-boolean field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>
<strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">BALTIMORE</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;">• Inside the Locker Room </span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">with Aaron Wilson of the <em>Carroll County Times</em></span></span><br />
<br />
<strong> Anquan Boldin posted his worst totals in catches and yards since 2004. Will his production return to its normal levels?</strong><br />
It’s unlikely that he'll generate significantly higher numbers due to his declining speed and average chemistry and timing with Joe Flacco. Plus, the Ravens remain committed to running the football with Ray Rice, and Boldin has to share the possession workload with other receiving targets. He’s not always the first option in the red zone. Boldin is a consummate professional, but his stats will remain static.</p>
<p>
<strong>Can/will Torrey Smith be the downfield threat needed in this offense?</strong><br />
Smith has the requisite size, speed and skill to emerge as a dynamic deep presence. The Ravens drafted him specifically to stretch defenses. He appears to have enough polish to get on the field.</p>
<p>
<strong>Flacco has increased his yards and TDs three years straight. Will he make it four?</strong><br />
Definitely a strong possibility considering that John Harbaugh and Ozzie Newsome intend to increase Flacco’s freedom to lead the offense. Flacco is extremely durable and seems poised to assert himself more this year.</p>
<p>
<strong>Who are the long-term keeper options to replace Mason and Todd Heap?</strong><br />
Wide receiver Tandon Doss, a fourth-round pick from Indiana with good hands and crisp routes, and tight end Ed Dickson, an athletic former Oregon star who had his moments as a rookie, are the top candidates.b</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>• Fantasy Playoff Run</strong></span><strong> — Weeks 14-16: </strong>IND, <a href="http://twitter.com/SD">@SD</a>, CLE<br />
OK, Joe Flacco and Ray Rice owners, you have a solid chance at winning your opening playoff round, and if you make it that far your title game looks good, too. The bugaboo is San Diego, on the road, in the middle (No. 1 vs. the pass and No. 4 vs. the run last season). But you get the Colts’ 25th-ranked run defense and the Browns’ 27th-ranked run-stoppers on either side; Cleveland’s pass defense also ranked 18th.</p>
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<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>• Athlon Best Bets</strong></span><br />
<strong>Sleeper: </strong>Torrey Smith, WR<br />
<strong>Deep-Sleeper:</strong> Tandon Doss, WR<br />
<strong>Overvalued: </strong>Defense/Special Teams<br />
<strong>Top Rookie:</strong> Jimmy Smith, DB<br />
<strong>Bounce-Back:</strong> Anquan Boldin, WR<br />
<strong>Top IDP: </strong>Terrell Suggs, DL</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size:14px;"><strong>• Try to Avoid</strong></span><br />
<strong>Ed Dickson, TE</strong><br />
No Derrick Mason. No Todd Heap. And the Ravens sign Vonta Leach to clear the way for more ground and pound (or at least dump offs) with Ray Rice. It’s probably a year too early for Dickson to be thrown into the fold as the team’s starting TE, and he may perform as such.<br />
<strong>WAIT UNTIL: </strong>19th RD</p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>• Draft Class Fantasy Impact</strong></span><br />
The Ravens desperately needed to add depth and speed to the receiving corps, and the selections of Smith and Doss should address both of those issues. Smith is more likely to make an impact in 2011, as he was one of the fastest receivers in the draft and gives the offense a much-needed weapon on the outside. The Ravens must find a running back to spell Ray Rice. Anthony Allen will have an opportunity to help in short-yardage situations and to serve as the No. 2 back.</p>
<p>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>More Fantasy Football Cheat Sheets and Rankings:</strong></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-top-280" target="_blank">2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Top 280</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-football-ranks-top-240-widps" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Top 240 w/ IDPs</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-qbs" target="_blank"><br />
2</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-qbs">011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks<br />
2</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire-report/2011-fantasy-ranks-rbs" target="_blank">011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-wrs" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-tes" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-kickers" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Kickers</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.athlonsports.com/columns/waiver-wire/2011-fantasy-ranks-defenses" target="_blank"><br />
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings: Defense/Special Teams</a></span></span></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-exclude-from-games field-type-list-boolean field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Exclude From Games:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-featured-weight field-type-list-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">3</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-template field-type-list-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Two Right Sidebar Images</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomyextra field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Taxonomy upgrade extras:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/anquan-boldin">Anquan Boldin</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-teams/baltimore-ravens">Baltimore Ravens</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/nfl-players/joe-flacco">Joe Flacco</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/nfl-players/ray-rice">Ray Rice</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/section/nfl">NFL</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/section/fantasy">Fantasy</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">&lt;br /&gt;
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-body2 field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <br />
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-author-byline field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <br />
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-include-in-newsletter field-type-list-boolean field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">0</div></div></div>Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:45:01 +0000Athlon Sports5617 at http://athlonsports.com